The Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has praised Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for what it described as a transparent and merit-driven approach in the recent appointment of Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service.
In a statement jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Churchill Oyowe, and Acting Secretary, Josephine Omodior, the union commended the governor for placing emphasis on seniority, professionalism, competence, and proven service records during the selection process.
According to the NUJ, the governor’s decision has strengthened confidence in the Delta State Civil Service by reaffirming the principle that years of dedication, hard work, patience, and integrity remain the most credible routes to career advancement within the public service.
The Council noted that the appointment of Permanent Secretaries had been delayed for some time, prompting calls from stakeholders and concerned groups for the exercise to be carried out. It expressed satisfaction that the governor not only responded to those concerns but also ensured that the process was conducted with fairness, transparency, and respect for established civil service traditions.
The NUJ stated that the governor’s approach would help reduce unhealthy rivalry, favouritism, unnecessary agitation, and political interference often associated with appointments into the office of Permanent Secretary.
The union further explained that the decision would boost morale among civil servants by reassuring senior officers that promotions and appointments would not be arbitrarily given to junior officers without clear and professionally justifiable reasons.
According to the Council, when appointments are guided by transparent and clearly defined criteria, officers who are not eventually selected are more likely to accept the outcome peacefully, knowing that every qualified person had an equal opportunity during the process.
The NUJ also aligned with Governor Oborevwori’s reported position that becoming a Permanent Secretary should not be viewed as the ultimate peak of a civil servant’s career, but rather as an additional opportunity to serve the state in a higher capacity.
The union stressed that Salary Grade Level 17 remains the highest statutory level in the civil service structure, while appointment as Permanent Secretary should be regarded as a privilege tied to available vacancies and broader government considerations.
Despite commending the governor, the Council appealed to the Delta State Government to introduce stronger welfare and retirement support systems for senior civil servants who have reached the peak of their careers after decades of service.
The NUJ expressed concern that many officers who retire after attaining top levels in the civil service often struggle with poor post-retirement earnings and difficult living conditions despite years of sacrifice and institutional contributions.
According to the union, such situations could negatively affect morale within the service and contribute to the intense competition, lobbying, and political tension that sometimes surround Permanent Secretary appointments.
The Council therefore called for improved retirement welfare packages and better remuneration for officers on Salary Grade Level 17 to ensure that reaching the highest level in the civil service remains a rewarding and dignified achievement.
Reaffirming its confidence in Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, the NUJ pledged continued support for reforms and policies aimed at strengthening professionalism, fairness, institutional stability, and workers’ welfare within the Delta State Civil Service.
